The charming port town of Picton serves as your jumping-off point into New Zealand’s premier wine country, Marlborough. Small-group wine tours stand out as the smartest way to explore – they’re efficiently organized and include everything you need. My favorite excursions combine visits to 4-5 family-run wineries with local chocolate tastings and scenic countryside drives.
These highly-rated tours nail the essentials: expert local guides, included tasting fees, comfortable transport with port pickup, and memorable lunch stops. I especially love the intimate private tours that let you set the pace while learning about wine-making from passionate vintners.
Let’s explore the top-rated Picton shore excursions worth your time and money.
Key Points
- Immersive Marlborough wine tours with visits to 4-5 boutique wineries, chocolate tasting, and personalized attention for up to 11 participants.
- Private shore excursions for up to 8 people with flexible itineraries, scenic drives, and complimentary water, wine tasting, and gifts.
- Small-group shore excursions featuring 4 handpicked wineries, scenic drives, and a friendly atmosphere with a maximum of 11 participants.
- Cruise ship shore excursions directly from Picton port, visiting 4-5 award-winning wineries with tastings included, and personalized attention for up to 12 people.
- Comprehensive 5-star rated wine tours with lunch at a premier winery, visits to 4 wineries, and an intimate setting for up to 10 participants.
Picton Shore Excursion Marlborough Wine Region Small-Group Tour
The Picton Shore Excursion Marlborough Wine Region Small-Group Tour offers travelers an immersive experience exploring the renowned wineries of the Marlborough region.
This tour takes visitors to four boutique wineries, where they can savor a variety of wines, from crisp sauvignon blancs to robust reds.
The tour also includes a visit to the Makana Boutique Chocolate Factory for a delightful chocolate tasting.
With a maximum of 11 passengers, this intimate experience allows for personalized attention from the knowledgeable driver/guide.
The tour’s accessibility, with options for wheelchair users and infant seats, ensures a comfortable journey for all.
Read our full review: Picton Shore Excursion Marlborough Wine Region Small-Group Tour Review
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Private Shore Excursion From Picton: Marlborough Highlights
Explore the renowned Marlborough wine region on this private shore excursion from Picton. For $1,128.37 per group, up to 8 participants can enjoy a 5-hour tour that includes tastings of sensational wines and gourmet treats.
The flexible itinerary allows you to mix wine tasting with local attractions, art galleries, and gardens. Your local chauffeur will take you through the scenic Wairau Valley countryside.
Included are bottled water, basic wine tasting fees, complimentary chocolates, and a gift. Advance booking is required, and you’ll need to notify the tour provider of any special dietary requirements.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this is an excellent option for exploring Marlborough’s highlights.
Read our full review: Private Shore Excursion From Picton: Marlborough Highlights Review
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Shore Excursion Marlborough Wine Region Tour From Picton
This small-group shore excursion from Picton offers an immersive exploration of the renowned Marlborough wine region.
Visiting four handpicked wineries, travelers can expect to sample the area’s renowned sauvignon blanc and pinot noir. The tour also includes a stop at a boutique chocolate factory for tastings.
During the scenic drive through the vineyards, the knowledgeable guide provides live commentary. With a maximum of 11 passengers, the experience fosters a friendly atmosphere.
Reviewers praise the professional guides and unique winery experiences. While lunch is available for an additional cost, some suggest reducing vineyard visits to accommodate a longer lunch.
Read our full review: Shore Excursion Marlborough Wine Region Tour From Picton Review
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Picton CRUISE SHIP Shore Excursion Marlborough Wine Tour
Visitors to Picton can embark on a captivating Marlborough wine tour directly from their cruise ship.
The Picton CRUISE SHIP Shore Excursion Marlborough Wine Tour whisks travelers to 4-5 award-winning wineries, offering wine tastings, vineyard tours, and chocolate tastings.
With a maximum group size of 12, this small-group experience ensures personalized attention from the knowledgeable local guide.
The tour includes port pickup and drop-off, as well as an air-conditioned vehicle, though lunch is at one’s own expense.
Priced at $138.86 per person, this excursion receives overwhelmingly positive reviews, with 96% of participants recommending the tour.
It’s an excellent opportunity to savor the flavors of Marlborough’s renowned wine region.
Read our full review: Picton CRUISE SHIP Shore Excursion Marlborough Wine Tour Review
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Shore Excursion Wine Tour Including Lunch From Picton
Travelers seeking a comprehensive wine experience during their Picton cruise can embark on the Shore Excursion Wine Tour Including Lunch.
This 5-star rated tour takes visitors to 4 wineries in the Blenheim/Picton area, providing expert insights from knowledgeable guides. The tour includes all standard wine tasting fees, a Marlborough Platter lunch at the stunning St Clair winery, and a complimentary glass of wine.
With a maximum group size of 10, the experience offers an intimate and interactive setting. Past travelers praised the tour’s value, knowledgeable guides, scenic views, and exceptional lunches, making it an ideal shore excursion for oenophiles and non-drinkers alike.
Read our full review: Shore Excursion Wine Tour Including Lunch From Picton Review
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Cruise Excursion – Wines of Marlborough Tour
The Wines of Marlborough Tour offers cruise ship passengers an opportunity to enjoy the renowned wine region of Picton, New Zealand.
This full-day excursion takes travelers to boutique wineries known for their world-class sauvignon blancs and other varietals. Guests can enjoy multiple wine tastings with all charges covered, as well as a scenic drive through the countryside.
The tour also includes a stop at a local chocolate factory before returning to the port. With a maximum of 11 travelers, the knowledgeable guides provide an intimate, personalized experience for participants to learn about the region’s winemaking.
Reviews highlight the excellent wine quality and scenic beauty, making this tour a top choice for cruise visitors.
Read our full review: Cruise Excursion – Wines of Marlborough Tour Review
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Sum Up
Picton offers a variety of shore excursions that allow visitors to explore the renowned Marlborough Wine Region. These tours provide an opportunity to sample the region’s renowned wines, learn about the winemaking process, and discover the stunning natural landscapes. Whether you prefer a small-group or private tour, a wine-focused experience, or a more rundown, there’s an excursion to suit your interests and preferences.